Inclusive development and restoring human dignity

Every year on February 27th, World NGO Day is commemorated in various countries across the globe. This day has a brief yet significant history. World NGO Day serves as a global event for non-governmental development organizations that tirelessly strive for social advancement worldwide. It acknowledges the importance of NGOs and their collaborative role as social institutions in development. Presently, this occasion is celebrated with great enthusiasm in over 89 countries. However, it is regrettable that despite Bangladesh being a hub for NGOs, the day is not observed with the respect it deserves.

Background

The concept of World NGO Day was introduced in 2009 by social entrepreneur Marcis Liors Skadmanis, who aimed to highlight the necessity of a dedicated day to honor the vital contributions of private organizations in tackling social, economic, and environmental issues. In 2010, the Baltic Sea NGO Forum, which comprises NGOs from the Baltic Sea area, officially suggested the creation of a World NGO Day. This initiative quickly received backing from the broader NGO community, and in acknowledgment of their aspirations and contributions, the inaugural World NGO Day was celebrated in 2014, with the endorsement of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Finland.

Evolution of the theme

Since its establishment, World NGO Day has embraced various themes that reflect the diverse contributions of NGOs. Beginning with "Leaving No One Behind" in 2015, the Day has been commemorated annually with a new theme. Last year, the theme was "Building a Sustainable Future: The Role of NGOs in Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals." This year, the theme is "Restoring Dignity Through Inclusion." Each theme thus far has underscored the multifaceted efforts and multidimensional contributions of NGOs. This year’s theme emphasizes inclusive development. "Restoring Dignity Through Inclusion"—this theme holds significant relevance in the current context. Inclusive development encompasses not only economic growth but also the engagement of disadvantaged and marginalized individuals in all aspects of society's development. When individuals are granted equal rights and opportunities, their lost social dignity is reinstated. NGOs adhere to the belief that genuine development cannot occur if anyone is left behind; hence, every initiative must be participatory. This theme serves as a reminder that safeguarding human dignity is the paramount objective of sustainable development.

Significance and solidarity

Today, World NGO Day is more than a mere formality; it serves as a distinctive bridge connecting NGOs, governments, civil society, and activists globally to collaborate effectively. Social media now carries the message of this Day to the doorsteps of individuals everywhere, crossing geographical boundaries and acknowledging the vital role of NGOs in advocating for positive change around the globe. The Day acts as a significant platform to amplify the collective voice of NGOs and communicate the needs of marginalized communities to decision-makers. This year's theme, "Restoring Dignity Through Inclusion," serves as a reminder that the fundamental strength of NGOs lies in their commitment to ensuring equality and cohesion across all societal levels. This event fosters interconnectivity within the social development sector and promotes a unified strategy through the effective utilization of resources. Most importantly, World NGO Day imparts the lesson that it is through collaboration and solidarity that we can create a future that is non-discriminatory, sustainable, and humane. We can.

Request to the people and the government

The historic uprising of the students and the populace in July has provided us with a chance to establish a non-discriminatory and equitable ‘New Bangladesh’. In this new endeavor, we humbly urge the current elected government, which is friendly to the people, to leverage the field-level experience and expertise of NGOs at every stage of state reform. We are not merely representatives of NGOs; we are also partners in the joys and sorrows of the citizens of this land. Therefore, we request the creation of a collaborative environment by alleviating the unnecessary administrative burdens placed on NGOs involved in development activities. Additionally, we ask the government to maintain an open channel for regular dialogue with NGOs, ensuring that the voices of the grassroots reach the policy-making level. At this pivotal moment of change, let us unite to construct a state where the dignity of every citizen is upheld and the benefits of development extend to the most marginalized individuals.

Final words

In conclusion, I wish to emphasize that NGOs represent more than just a donor agency project or a mere paper report. An NGO embodies hope, standing by the helpless like a vigilant guardian amidst disaster; it symbolizes courage, inspiring neglected women with dreams of self-reliance; it is the companion that empowers the vulnerable to endure. Despite facing numerous challenges, our primary objective has remained steadfast—'selfless service to the people'. We envision a Bangladesh where the fruits of development are not limited to the towering structures of the city, but rather reach the dilapidated homes of every individual residing at the farthest ends of the mountains and plains. On this World NGO Day, let us commit to being the supportive force of the state, effective partners in the creation of a prosperous and non-discriminatory Bengal. We have been by the side of the people in the past, we are present and will be by their side in the future as well in the fight for that dignity. Once again, I wish everyone a happy World NGO Day.